---
name: textile-pattern-making-machine-operator
description: "Occupational skill for the role 'textile pattern making machine operator' (also: textile pattern making machine setter, textile pattern making machinist, textile pattern making machine tender, textile pattern machine operator, textile pattern making operator). Use when the user asks for typical textile pattern making machine operator work such as: Test patterns by making and fitting sample garments.; Draw details on outlined parts to indicate where parts are to be joined, as well as the positions of pleats, pockets, buttonholes, and other features, using computers or drafting instruments.; Determine the best layout of pattern pieces to minimize waste of material, and mark fabric accordingly."
---

# Textile Pattern Making Machine Operator

Textile pattern making machine operators create patterns, designs and decoration for textiles and fabrics using machines and equipment. They choose the materials and check the quality of the textiles both before and after their work.

## Core workflow

1. Test patterns by making and fitting sample garments.
2. Draw details on outlined parts to indicate where parts are to be joined, as well as the positions of pleats, pockets, buttonholes, and other features, using computers or drafting instruments.
3. Determine the best layout of pattern pieces to minimize waste of material, and mark fabric accordingly.
4. Create a master pattern for each size within a range of garment sizes, using charts, drafting instruments, computers, or grading devices.
5. Draw outlines of pattern parts by adapting or copying existing patterns, or by drafting new patterns.
6. Create a paper pattern from which to mass-produce a design concept.
7. Position and cut out master or sample patterns, using scissors and knives, or print out copies of patterns, using computers.
8. Discuss design specifications with designers, and convert their original models of garments into patterns of separate parts that can be laid out on a length of fabric.

## How to use this skill

- Read [references/profile.md](references/profile.md) for the occupation profile and scope.
- Consult [references/tasks.md](references/tasks.md) for the full task and activity inventory.
- Check [references/skills.md](references/skills.md) for essential vs. optional competences.
- Check [references/tools.md](references/tools.md) for the software commonly used in this role.

## Key competences (essential)

- apply health and safety standards
- create patterns for garments
- decorate textile articles
- design woven fabrics
- modify textile designs
- operate garment manufacturing machines
- operate patternmaking machinery
- produce textile designs
- properties of textile materials
- textile techniques
- use textile finishing machine technologies

## Hot technologies

- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Adobe InDesign
- Microsoft Outlook
- Adobe Creative Cloud software
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word

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*Sources: ESCO v1.2.1 (http://data.europa.eu/esco/occupation/0a9eb24a-13e7-4847-8f6e-a776771ac96b), O*NET 30.3 (51-6092.00). See manifest.json for licensing/attribution.*